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Ahmed Abughazaleh

Senior from Palestine
Electrical engineering, with minor in government

Do you live on campus?
Yes, and I enjoy the quick access to friends and free food.

List some of the clubs or organizations you are involved in at UT Dallas.
Collegium V, Association of Computer Machinery, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Texas Society of Professional Engineers, Muslim Student Association.

List some clubs or organizations you are involved in outside of school.
In my spare time, I mentor for the engineering department, and, at certain times of the year, I participate in the YMCA Youth and Government program where I teach students the legislative process. I also volunteer with the Friends of the Nicholson Memorial Library in Garland.

List some of your hobbies.
Writing, playing games.

Why did you decide to become a First-Year Leader?
I like the prospect of meeting new students and professors. I enjoy meeting new friends and learning about different personalities.

What advice do you have for the freshmen class coming into UT Dallas?
Keep a cool, open mind and be willing to explore something new and meet new people. But remember: knowledge and a good education are the best tools you will ever have against the outside world!

What do you wish you did during your freshman year that you didn’t?
I wish I had the guts to get out there and get involved in more clubs and organizations. I also wish I went to Freshman Convocation.

What do you like about UT Dallas?
Definitely the quiet atmosphere that permeates everything on this campus — it sends a powerful and inspirational message, such as “shhhhh, we’re working on the next big thing,” or “yes, we’re nerds, and we’re proud of it!”

Why did you decide to attend UT Dallas?
UT Dallas offered me a peaceful environment that I can share with other likeminded individuals. It has a great faculty, the best resources in the Metroplex, and of course, money was a significant factor as well.

What has been your favorite/best UT Dallas experience so far?
My favorite UT Dallas experience is sitting in the CV lounge or at the Comet Café with friends debating and discussing current events and ideas.

What did you learn about college life that you didn’t know before?
It’s not as difficult as my high school teachers made it out to be, and education is just as important as having a healthy social life.

What do you like to do to unwind after class?
Debate politics and discuss current events and ideas with my friends and acquaintances.

Other information you’d like to contribute:
I am a Muslim American who has lived in the United States for the majority of my life. I enjoy writing science-fiction, learning about various sciences from astronomy to immunology, and discussing and debating prevalent topics in today’s society.